Apple, Google, & Samsung Events: What to Expect

A Busy Week Ahead for Tech: Apple, Google, and Samsung Events

The hardware calendar is culminating in a flurry of activity next week. Three major technology companies – Apple, Google, and Samsung – are each hosting significant events on consecutive days. These announcements represent their final major pushes before the start of the holiday shopping season.

Consequently, technology journalists and reviewers, including those at TechCrunch, are preparing for a period of intense coverage. We have gathered information regarding potential announcements through a combination of industry rumors, leaked details, and logical deduction.

The latter approach is particularly relevant when considering Apple and Samsung. Both companies have recently unveiled key products. Therefore, we can reasonably anticipate what will be showcased next, excluding the introduction of entirely new product categories. Google, conversely, has already publicly disclosed the focus of its Tuesday presentation.

Let's examine the schedule in chronological order.

Apple's Event: Monday at 10AM PT/1PM ET

Apple’s event is scheduled to begin Monday at 10AM PT/1PM ET. Just over a month has passed since their previous presentation, which featured the latest iPhone models, Apple Watch iterations, and iPad updates. However, one significant product line was notably absent.

New Mac computers were not revealed during that event. Given the imminent release of macOS Monterey and the company’s commitment to transitioning its entire product line to its own silicon, this omission was keenly felt.

While a simple press release was considered, Apple appears to have chosen to dedicate a separate event to its Mac lineup. Companies are now less constrained by the need to consolidate announcements into a single event, as physical attendance is no longer a primary consideration. We anticipate substantial news regarding Macs, including:

• New MacBook Pro models in both 13-inch and 16-inch sizes
• An updated Mac Mini
• A 27-inch iMac

The first two products will likely succeed last year’s M1-powered versions, offering similar internal components. A faster M1X chip is expected, alongside potential hardware redesigns. The 27-inch iMac would complement the existing 24-inch model, targeting professional users.

Furthermore, an updated entry-level AirPods model is rumored to be in development. This version is expected to feature improved sound quality and a design more closely aligned with the AirPods Pro, though without incorporating active noise cancellation.

Google's Event: Tuesday at 10AM PT/1PM ET

Google has already announced its intention to unveil its Tensor chip, marking its entry into the realm of first-party silicon, moving away from Qualcomm. This chip will power the new Pixel 6 and a Pixel 6 Pro model. The handsets showcase a significant redesign for a product line that has faced challenges in the competitive smartphone market.

Google has even published a product page for both devices in anticipation of the event. As noted by Greg, the key features include:

Recent leaks have revealed details about the camera system – two rear cameras on the Pixel 6 and three on the Pixel 6 Pro. Both will feature a 50-megapixel wide-angle lens and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, while the Pro model adds a 48-megapixel telephoto lens. The event will commence on Tuesday at 10AM PT/1PM ET.

Samsung's Event: Wednesday at 7AM PT/10AM ET

Samsung’s Wednesday event presents the greatest degree of uncertainty. This is unusual, considering the typical propensity for Samsung products to be leaked prior to their official unveiling. The recently announced foldable devices are unlikely to be revisited, and a new Galaxy S series device is not expected until February/March of next year. A PC or tablet announcement appears plausible. The vibrant colors featured in the event invitation may also provide a hint. The event will begin at 7AM PT/10AM ET on Wednesday.